Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire (Cork South Central, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I agree with having the examinations. That was my position any time I was asked but if everything had moved up a division, the approach taken for the leaving certificate would have been an appropriate solution to the junior certificate. It is very disappointing that no further adjustments have been made to the junior certificate papers. Leaving certificate students have understandably been prioritised for teaching substitutes, notwithstanding the absences that still exist, which are very considerable, according to the Irish Second-Level Students Union survey. Junior certificate students were some of the last to return to school buildings. If I recall correctly, they were out until well into April last year. None of the changes take into account the increased levels of absence and the very lengthy school closures. Why have there been no new changes to relieve the pressure on junior certificate students?

By way of observation, I mentioned the contact I received from students, families and some teachers regarding the leaving certificate. It was actually teachers, most of all, who contacted me about the junior certificate. I am quite disappointed on behalf of their students.

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